Let’s face it: none of us are always going to respond correctly, especially when a challenging situation first hits. So let’s talk briefly about what to do when we’ve had time to reflect and realize that we could have done things better. Here are three ideas about what to do if you find you’ve started handling a difficulty in an … Read More
Seize the Day
“How do you know what your life will be like tomorrow? For your life is like the morning fog – it’s here a little while, then it’s gone.” – James 4:14 (NLT)
Wesley on the Power of Living for God
“Give me one hundred men who fear nothing but sin and desire nothing but God, and I care not whether they be clergyman or laymen, they alone will shake the gates of Hell and set up the kingdom of Heaven upon the earth.” – John Wesley (June 28, 1703 – March 2, 1791), 18th century Anglican evangelist and joint founder of … Read More
8 Biblical Principles for Recruiting New Volunteers
When I was just starting in ministry, one of my most respected mentors said something to me that I’ve never forgotten. As I was venting to him about feeling like a one-man show in my young church, he put his arm around me and said, “Nelson, remember, every member in your church is a minister. You are not in this alone … Read More
Priority Check: Two Daily Decisions Pastors Need to Make Jesus #1
Your life and your ministry will be defined by how well you follow your Lord. But what does it look like, practically speaking, to put Jesus first in your life and yourself second? Well, here’s what it doesn’t look like: It doesn’t look like giving yourself a green light to do whatever pleases you rather than meeting the needs of … Read More
Leaders Should Be Servants
“But among you it will be different. Those who are the greatest among you should take the lowest rank, and the leader should be like a servant.” —Luke 22:26 (NLT)
Bill Bright on Emphasizing Prayer in Ministry
“Show me a church or a Christian organization that emphasizes prayer, and I’ll show you a ministry where people are excited about Jesus Christ and are witnessing for Him.” — William R. “Bill” Bright (October 19, 1921 – July 19, 2003) was an American evangelist and Christian leader. His influence spanned the last half of the 20th century and extended … Read More
Good Stress vs. Bad Stress: Understanding the Difference
Yes, there is such a thing as good stress. Small amounts of good stress keep you focused and motivated. You grow through certain levels of stress. The stress gravity exerts on you makes your bones denser and your muscles stronger. When you exercise, your endurance rises as a result of the stress you impose on yourself. When you decide to … Read More
Companions in Christ: What God Says About Close Friends
God created us to have close relationships. When we don’t have these close relationships, we are actually living out of step with the way God created us. The great people of God had companions, almost without exception. (The ones who didn’t often found themselves in trouble.) We could start with Adam and Eve. Moses had Aaron as his companion. The … Read More
Leaders Endure with Patience
“God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12 (NLT)